VPN disconnect problems: Possible causes and solutions

Last updated:

stuck need help

Need connection help?

Talk to a human
connection help

Need connection help?

Talk to a human

If your VPN is constantly getting disconnected, follow the steps below to resolve the issue.

VPN disconnection problems may have to do with your device, operating system, or connection type. For the most efficient resolution process, contact the ExpressVPN Support Team.

Preliminary check: Make sure you’re not connected to another VPN before proceeding to the steps below. Ideally, disconnect and close any other VPN programs you have before using ExpressVPN.

Step 1: Check firewall and antivirus

Your firewall, antivirus, or anti-spyware program may be affecting your connection. To test this, disable these programs, then reconnect to ExpressVPN.

If disabling the programs resolves the issue, you’ll need to add ExpressVPN as an exception before you enable them again.

If the problem persists, move to Step 2.

Need help? Contact the ExpressVPN Support Team for immediate assistance.

Back to top

Step 2: Connect to the server location nearest to your geographic location

If this resolves the issue, the problem is with the server location you originally tried to connect to.

If the problem persists, move to Step 3.

Need help? Contact the ExpressVPN Support Team for immediate assistance.

Back to top

Step 3: Change your VPN protocol

Often, the connection will work better when TCP is used instead of UDP. For help, see instructions on:

If the problem persists, move to Step 4.

Need help? Contact the ExpressVPN Support Team for immediate assistance.

Back to top

Step 4: Change your DNS

Rarely, not using one of ExpressVPN’s default DNS servers will provide a smoother connection. See instructions on how to change the DNS server.

If the problem persists, move to Step 5.

Need help? Contact the ExpressVPN Support Team for immediate assistance.

Back to top

Step 5: Switch to a different network

Try using a different network, such as a public Wi-Fi connection, to see if the connection problem is with your current internet service.

If the problem persists, move to Step 6.

Need help? Contact the ExpressVPN Support Team for immediate assistance.

Back to top

Step 6: Update your ExpressVPN app

  1. Sign in to your ExpressVPN account
  2. Select Set Up ExpressVPN
  3. Select your device platform
  4. Select Download to download the latest version of ExpressVPN for your device platform
  5. Set up and connect your ExpressVPN app

Need help? Contact the ExpressVPN Support Team for immediate assistance.

Back to top

Was this article helpful?143 27
Sorry about that!
Submit Feedback
Chat with a human now
Contact Support now
Undo